US M1892/96 rifle. correct forward barrel band ?

[bayoned]

Hi,

i have a US M1892/96 rifle. Serial 7174. (Still has the early first style bolt body with the parallel sided guide rib)
The side cartouche is dated 1898.

My question: what would be the correct front barrel band style? It currently has the band style with the milled off top-middle and has the slit on the bottom just behind the bayonet lug. (I do have an early solid band in the parts box. Would this one be correct?)

thanks,

[madsenshooter]

You sure the last number of the cartouche isn't a 5? Could be 1898 if it went back to the arsenal for a full rebuild and needed a stock. The slotted band didn't come into use until up around serial #250,000, but was often retrofitted upon rebuilds. So your solid band would seem more correct. However, if it doesn't fit right you'd be better off with the one you can tighten. If you pull on the barrel and the forearm behind the band, in opposite vertical directions, you shouldn't be able to detect any movement. I've had some that allow too much movement.

[bayoned]

Actually, I'm not positive of the last digit in the date stamp, as the side stock cartouche is worn and somewhat difficult to make out. (the wrist "P" is much crisper.)

The stock does not appear to be a modified '92, as it has no trace of a filled cleaning rod channel. The toe is the later rounded style.

The barrel muzzle has been crowned. The rear sight is the '96.

[Dick Hosmer]

If it is not a modified 1892 stock and it has the proper wood contour at the bolt root, then it must be a replacement stock of Model 1896 form, and the date is probably not 1898 - though I would tread lightly and not change anything irreversible until I was sure of what I was doing.

[bayoned]

The stock is definitely not an upgraded / modified 1892.
It does has the correct '96 bolt root configuration and contour.

So, if this stock cartouche is NOT 1898, then what might it be?
(And i think i'll take that advice, and just leave the rifle as it is.)

[madsenshooter]

It might be an 1896 stock. 1892 stocks do not have lightening cuts in the barrel channel, 1896 stocks do have the cuts. The cartouche for a model 96 stock could range from 1896 to 1898. The 1896 stock also has a thicker wrist.